Winston-Salem, NC - Police Chief Scott Cunningham announced Thursday that he will retire at the end of June 2013.

Cunningham's retirement will mark five years of service as Winston-Salem's chief of police, he was sworn-in June 30, 2008, but his career spans 33 years as a law enforcement professional. Before coming to Winston-Salem, Cunningham served the Tampa Police Department for 24 years and then was the chief of police in Cary, NC.

One of Cunningham's biggest initiatives provided neighborhoods with consistent beat officers to work with community members to prevent crime. According to WSPD, the department has grown to 569 officers since Cunningham took office.

Cunningham said, "I am very proud of what we have accomplished in Winston-Salem. Our community and citizens enjoy an enhanced quality of life and a closer positive relationship with the police department. The men and women of the Winston-Salem Police Department are truly outstanding, dedicated professionals. I am honored to have served with them."

Cunningham currently serves on the boards of North Carolina Chiefs of Police, The Boy Scouts of America - Old Hickory Council and YMCA Camp Hanes.